Dodgers News And Rumors: Will Reliever Javy Guerra Be Traded?

The Los Angeles Dodgers have signed several relievers this off-season, giving them some depth by adding quality veterans. The Dodgers bullpen is crowded and some young middle relievers might get traded or start the year in Albuquerque. One of the casualties might be Javy Guerra, who really struggled last season and could have a problem making the 25-man roster and is a candidate to be traded to another team.

Guerra appeared in nine games and had a 6.75 ERA in 10.2 innings pitched last season. He spent most of last year in Triple A with the Albuquerque Isotopes and he led the team in saves with 12. Guerra was a surprise for the Dodgers in 2011and recorded 21 saves in 23 opportunities with a 2.31 ERA.

Having Guerra in Albuquerque gives the Dodgers some security in case the bullpen is hit with injuries. Still just 28 years old, he’s still relatively young and if the Dodgers don’t win the Masahiro Tanaka sweepstakes, the Dodgers could deal him in a package for a pitcher. Trading for Price still seems unlikely, but Guerra could be the player designated for assignment if Tanaka is signed.

The Dodgers made the bullpen a priority this off-season and they should be much better than last years group. With arguably the best rotation in baseball, having the right guys to come in and end the game is crucial.